Ever since Joshua Oconer began seeing Honzo builds on the internet and social media, he knew he wanted to build one, “If I ever build a bike from the frame up it’s going to be a Honzo.” Currently living in Rome, Italy, Joshua began his own build at the start of their lockdown due to COVID-19. “I pulled the trigger on a Honzo frame. This became my project for the months to follow.”
“Here in Italy, there are so many climbs with amazing scenery and a bunch of descents that can get tricky. I wanted a bike that could be called upon no matter the task. When I look at the Honzo, I see a blank canvas dying for someone to express their love for riding bikes on. On top of that, I just love steel bikes. I have a Kona Sutra LTD, which adds to the fun. I wanted to build the ultimate trail slayer. After I finished the build, I pictured it as a bike made for a samurai so I named it Kaido. I’m also a huge fan of the anime series, One Piece, and Kaido is a beast!”
Joshua has gone for a green and red theme with his build, and nowhere more is that more evident than in the drivetrain. Red anodized Raceface Atlas cranks from the basis of the drivetrain these are complemented by an Absolut Black 32t oval chainring. Out the back, you’ll find Shimano’s new SLX rear derailleur and a Sunrace 12-speed cassette. Issi’s Thump pedals kick off the bikes key contact points.
The wheelset is from Industry Nine an is their Enduro S 29er’s, they are wrapped in Maxxis tires, a Minion SS 2.3 out back and a Minion DHF 2.5 up front.
A Works -2º angle set headset holds in place a 130mm Marzocchi Bomber Z2 fork with 44mm offset and more red accents. Stopping is taken care of with Magura MT5’s and a pair of Magura 180mm rotors.
And the build is finished off with a PNW Components Rainier V3 post with matching PNW Loam Lever, its topped off with an ANVL saddle.
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